Many homeowners are comfortable tackling basic DIY jobs, but electrical work is an area where the rules are strict for good reason. In the UK, it is not illegal to do all electrical work yourself, but it is illegal to carry out certain types of work without the correct certification. This is known as notifiable electrical work, and failing to follow the rules can lead to safety risks, insurance issues, and problems when selling your property.
What is “notifiable” electrical work?
Notifiable work is defined under Part P of the Building Regulations, which covers electrical safety in residential properties. Any work classed as notifiable must be carried out by a qualified electrician or signed off by Building Control.
Common examples include:
- Electrical work in bathrooms or shower rooms
- Electrical work outdoors, such as garden lighting or power supplies
These jobs must be tested, certified, and recorded. Carrying them out without proper approval is not permitted.
Installing new circuits or rewiring
Running new cables, adding sockets to a new circuit, or rewiring part or all of a property is always notifiable. This type of work affects the overall electrical load and safety of the system. Without proper testing, faults may not show up until years later, increasing the risk of fire or electric shock.
Consumer unit (fuse board) changes
Replacing a consumer unit is never a DIY job. It requires specialist testing equipment and a full inspection of the existing installation. This work must be certified by a registered electrician. An uncertified consumer unit replacement can invalidate home insurance immediately.
Electrical work in bathrooms and outdoors
Bathrooms are classed as special locations due to the presence of water. Strict rules apply to zoning, IP ratings, and circuit protection. Outdoor electrical work is also higher risk because of exposure to moisture and temperature changes. In both cases, the work must be certified.
What electrical work can you do yourself?
Some minor tasks are allowed, such as:
- Replacing sockets or switches on a like-for-like basis
- Changing light fittings (excluding bathrooms)
- Replacing damaged cables on appliances
However, even these jobs must be done safely and competently.
Why certification matters
If notifiable work isn’t certified:
- You may struggle to sell your home
- Your insurance could be invalid
- You could be held liable if something goes wrong
Using a qualified electrician ensures the work is safe, legal, and properly documented.
If you’re unsure whether a job is notifiable, contact us at The Handy Squad to speak to an electrician in London.
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